The Google Pixel XL, launched in October 2016, was the larger sibling of the original Pixel. Designed for users seeking a bigger screen and longer battery life, the Pixel XL delivered the same premium Android experience as the Pixel, making it a top choice for enthusiasts of clean, fast, and reliable smartphones.
Design and Build
Materials: Aluminum unibody with a partial glass panel on the back.
Dimensions: 154.7 x 75.7 x 8.5 mm.
Weight: 168 grams.
Colors: Quite Black, Very Silver, and Really Blue (limited edition).
Features:
Ergonomic design with a solid, premium feel.
Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick and secure access.
Display
Type: 5.5-inch AMOLED display.
Resolution: Quad HD (1440 x 2560 pixels) with ~534 PPI.
Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 4.
Quality: Vibrant colors, sharp details, and excellent outdoor visibility.
Performance
Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 (quad-core).
GPU: Adreno 530 for smooth gaming and multimedia.
RAM: 4 GB LPDDR4.
Storage: 32 GB and 128 GB options (non-expandable).
Operating System: Launched with Android 7.1 Nougat, upgradable to Android 10.
Camera System
Rear Camera:
12.3 MP sensor with f/2.0 aperture.
Features: HDR+, large 1.55 µm pixels, PDAF, laser autofocus.
Video Recording: Supports 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 120fps, and 720p at 240fps.
Front Camera:
8 MP with f/2.4 aperture for crisp selfies.
Battery and Charging
Capacity: 3450 mAh non-removable battery.
Charging:
USB-C with 18W fast charging.
Provides up to 7 hours of usage with a 15-minute charge.
Connectivity
Network: 4G LTE.
Wi-Fi: Dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac.
Bluetooth: Version 4.2.
Ports: USB-C and 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Software Highlights
Google Assistant: Integrated for natural voice interaction and smart functionality.
Unlimited Photo Storage: Free, full-resolution backups via Google Photos.
Pixel Launcher: Streamlined home screen and app interface.
Timely Updates: Priority Android and security patches from Google.
Audio Features
Bottom-firing speaker for loud, clear sound.
Active noise cancellation for improved call clarity.
Pricing and Availability
Launch Price: Starting at $769 (32 GB variant).
Regions: Widely available in North America, Europe, and other select markets.
Reception and Legacy
The Pixel XL was praised for its excellent build quality, unmatched camera performance, and fluid software experience. It set a new benchmark for Android smartphones with its focus on reliability and usability. Despite criticism for lacking water resistance and expandable storage, it remained a favorite among users who valued clean Android and premium hardware.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel XL was a standout device in its era, combining a stunning display, exceptional camera capabilities, and a smooth Android experience. It catered perfectly to users seeking a larger screen and a long-lasting battery without compromising performance.
